Crater Lake National Park is a must-see destination for adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in southern Oregon, this stunning blue lake is the result of a collapsed volcano and is the deepest lake in the United States. With its crystal clear waters, picturesque vistas, and abundant hiking opportunities, it’s no wonder that Crater Lake is a popular tourist destination.
In this blog post, we’ll provide a detailed one day itinerary for exploring Crater Lake National Park, including tips on the best things to see and do, as well as recommendations for where to eat and stay. Follow our guide and you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to this stunning natural wonder.
Best time to visit Crater Lake National Park
Summer
Summer is by far the most popular season to visit Crater Lake National Park. The summer season is quite short and stretches from July through September. During this time you will find that all hiking and outdoor activities are open. This is also the most crowded season.
Winter
The winter season can be unpredictable, and many attractions close during this time. It generally stretches from December through April. This season requires a lot more planning with contingency plans. The rim road often closes partly or fully due to snowfall. However, winter in Crater Lake National Park is beautiful and deserves a visit.
Off Season
The months outside of the Winter and Summer seasons, like May, June and October are also great times to visit. There are significantly less people during this time, and the weather can still be very nice. While some locations like the lodge and dining are closed, you often get the feeling of having the whole park to yourself.
How to get to Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park is located in southern Oregon, about a 5-hour drive from Portland, a 1.5-hour drive from Medford, and a 2.5-hour drive from Bend. The park is accessible by car, and there are several options for getting there:
The closest airport to the park is the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport, located about a 2-hour drive from the park. From the airport, you can rent a car to the park.
If you are coming from Bend, check out our Bend Weekend Itinerary for some epic recommendations!
Where to Stay Near Crater Lake National Park
After a full day of exploring Crater Lake National Park, you’ll want a comfortable place to rest your head. There are several options for overnight accommodations near the park. If you have more than one day in the area, check out our Medford blog for a weekend itinerary. Medford is a great home base for exploring Oregon’s Rogue Valley.
Here are a few recommendations for where to stay during your visit:
- Compass Hotel Medford: Located in Medford (the closest city to the park). A great location for tropical vibes in the pacific northwest!
- Crater Lake Lodge: Located within the park boundaries, the Crater Lake Lodge offers stunning views of the lake and nearby mountains. In addition to comfortable accommodations, the lodge also features a dining room and a gift shop. The lodge is open from May through October.
- The Cabins at Mazama Village: Located about 7 miles south of the Rim Village nestled high in the Ponderosa pines. The cabins are open from May through September.
- Mazama Campground: Located about 7 miles south of the Rim Village. The campground is open from July through September.
No matter where you choose to stay, be sure to book your accommodations in advance, as the park can get busy during peak tourist season. With these options, you’ll be able to find a comfortable and convenient place to rest after a full day of exploring Crater Lake National Park.
A Day in Crater Lake National Park
Morning
Start your day with a sunrise hike to one of the park’s many overlooks. Some popular options include Watchman Overlook, which offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape, or Garfield Peak, which provides a more challenging hike with rewarding views at the top.
With the sun rising from the west, it is best to drive the Rim drive clockwise. However, catching sunrise anywhere between Garfield Peak and Watchman Overlook will end with a short drive to the next destination. If you have a lot of extra time after the hike, you can stop at any of the many viewpoints between these to locations.
Mid-morning
After your hike, head to the Crater Lake Lodge for breakfast. This historic lodge, built in 1915, offers a range of dining options, from quick grab-and-go items to sit-down meals. Be sure to grab a window seat so you can enjoy the breathtaking views while you eat.
The Crater Lake Lodge is open between May and October, so if you are traveling outside of that window, then you should either bring a picnic or stop at the Rim Village Cafe which is near the lodge.
Midday
After breakfast, head up towards Watchman Overlook and stop at any of the overlooks that you haven’t already. Afterward, continue on the Rim drive, stopping at any overlooks that catch your attention, until you arrive at the Cleetwood Cove Trail. The trail is about a mile long and takes visitors down to the lake for a swim or boat tour. Both tours provide unparalleled views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the park’s many hiking trails. The park boasts over 90 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. Some popular trails include the Wizard Island Summit, and the Plaikni Falls Trail which leads to a beautiful waterfall.
The Cloudcap and Phantom Shipwreck overlooks also provide expansive views of the lake.
Evening
Unless you did it for sunrise, take the trail and watch the sunset at Garfield Peak. Otherwise, head back towards the Crater Lake Lodge for dinner. After dinner, take a stroll around the lodge’s grounds, which offer beautiful views of the lake and nearby mountains.
Conclusion
With its stunning views and abundance of outdoor activities, Crater Lake National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to southern Oregon. By following our one day crater lake itinerary, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit and experience all that this amazing park has to offer. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the memories of your trip to this natural wonder.
